FDA clears Siemens compact, air-cooled CT machine

Siemens Healthineers has announced its air-cooled Somatom Pro.Pulse dual-source CT scanner has been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The CT unit is smaller and more affordable than previous models, requiring 31% less space for operation than other dual-source systems. Because it is entirely air cooled, it also consumes 20% less power than similar water-cooled scanners, Siemens said in an announcement. 

The Somatom Pro.Pulse is designed to work in a range of healthcare facilities and imaging centers. Like many modern systems, it comes equipped with AI to aid with scans, including an interface that collects patient demographic data, heart rate, lung capacity and more, displaying them for the operator.

The CT unit was on display at the annual Radiological Society of North America meeting in Chicago last month. 

Siemens has received other notable FDA clearances this year, including a mobile 1.5T MRI system designed for rural areas or off-site scans.

Chad Van Alstin Health Imaging Health Exec

Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.

Around the web

The new technology shows early potential to make a significant impact on imaging workflows and patient care. 

Richard Heller III, MD, RSNA board member and senior VP of policy at Radiology Partners, offers an overview of policies in Congress that are directly impacting imaging.
 

The two companies aim to improve patient access to high-quality MRI scans by combining their artificial intelligence capabilities.